Device for displaying an energy variation and an energy variation bound of an aircraft

ABSTRACT

A display device for displaying information relative to a flight by an aircraft is provided. The information includes information relative to an energy variation of the aircraft, the energy variation being expressed by a variable representative of that energy variation. The display device is configured to show, on a viewing screen, an energy variation symbol representative of a current value of the variable. The display device is configured to further show at least one energy variation bound symbol representative of a threshold value of the variable, the threshold value corresponding to an authorized acceleration bound for the aircraft to keep or bring the speed of the aircraft in or toward a predefined usage speed range.

This is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/064,502 filed Mar. 8, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,635,256 which claims the benefit of French Patent Application FR 15 00533, filed Mar. 18, 2015, which are both hereby incorporated by reference herein.

The present invention relates to a device for displaying information relative to a flight by an aircraft, said information comprising information relative to an energy variation of the aircraft, said energy variation being expressed by a variable representative of that energy variation, said display device being configured to show, on a viewing screen, an energy variation symbol representative of a current value of said variable.

The invention in particular aims to assist pilot during piloting in manual mode, so as to keep the speed of the aircraft in a given speed range, for example to keep the speed of the aircraft below a maximum authorized speed, corresponding to a structural limit of the aircraft, and above a minimum authorized speed, associated with an aerodynamic stall incidence of the aircraft.

BACKGROUND

In order to keep the speed of an aircraft in such a speed range, it is known to provide the aircraft with a protection system configured to limit the angle of attack and attitude of the aircraft, in order to avoid reaching the stall speed of the aircraft, and to gradually introduce, from a threshold speed, a pull up depth command in order to avoid reaching the structural limit of the aircraft.

Nevertheless, these solutions do not make it possible to protect the aircraft against loss of maneuverability. In particular, at low speeds, the capacity of the aircraft to pull up decreases until it is canceled out. Under such conditions, the pilot no longer has a sufficient maneuvering margin in terms of angle of attack to increase the load factor of the aircraft and quickly modify the trajectory of the aircraft.

Likewise, at high speeds, the capacity of the aircraft to dive decreases until it is canceled out, altering the pilot's maneuvering margin to modify the trajectory of the aircraft.

To resolve this problem, it has been proposed to equip the aircraft with a speed control system, activated once the speed of the aircraft crosses a predetermined threshold, and configured to enslave the speed of the aircraft by controlling the throttle.

This solution is not fully satisfactory. Indeed, this solution is based on controlling only the thrust, irrespective of the flight configuration of the aircraft, without intervening on the drag of the aircraft, and is therefore generally not optimal. Furthermore, the implementation of the protection, which involves going from manual control of the throttle to automatic control of the throttle, can disrupt the manual piloting of the aircraft by the pilot.

Also known from document FR 2,958,033 is a device for displaying information relative to a flight configuration of an aircraft, comprising information relative to an energy variation of the aircraft and an energy variation range that can be achieved by said aircraft. This energy variation range depends on the thrust values that can be generated by the engines of the aircraft and the drag force exerted on the aircraft depending on the position of the air brakes.

Such a device does not provide the pilot with information relative to the possibility of exceeding speed limits in light of the current acceleration of the aircraft.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An objection of the invention is therefore to provide a device for displaying information relative to a flight of an aircraft that makes it possible to inform the pilot when upper and/or lower predetermined speed limits risk being exceeded, in order to authorize a reaction by the pilot before these limits are exceeded.

To that end, the invention provides a display device of the aforementioned type, characterized in that it is configured to further show at least one energy variation bound symbol representative of a threshold value of said variable, said threshold value corresponding to an authorized acceleration bound for said aircraft to keep or bring the speed of the aircraft in or toward a predefined usage speed range.

According to other aspects, the display device includes one or more of the following features:

-   -   the display device is configured to show said energy variation         symbol in a first position on said viewing screen, and to show         said energy variation bound symbol in a second position on said         viewing screen, the distance between the energy variation symbol         and the energy variation bound symbol being representative of a         deviation between the current value of said variable and said         threshold value of said variable, at least as long as the         current acceleration of the aircraft has not exceeded that         acceleration bound;     -   said variable representative of the energy variation is         homogeneous with a slope of the aircraft;     -   the device is configured to show, on said viewing screen, an         artificial horizon line and a speed vector symbol representing a         speed vector of the aircraft, the distance between said         artificial horizon line and said speed vector symbol being         representative of the current slope of the aircraft, according         to a predetermined scale, and the distance between said         artificial horizon line and said energy variation symbol is         representative of the current value of said variable;     -   the distance between said artificial horizon line and said         energy variation bound symbol is representative of the threshold         value of said variable, at least as long as said current         acceleration has not exceeded said acceleration bound;     -   the device is configured to show said energy variation bound         symbol on the viewing screen only when a deviation between the         current value of said variable and said threshold value of said         variable is below a predetermined deviation threshold;     -   said authorized acceleration bound depends on a deviation         between a bound of said usage speed range and a current speed of         said aircraft;     -   the device is also configured to show a graduated speed scale of         the aircraft, along which a speed symbol is illustrated         indicating the current speed of the aircraft as well as a first         speed bound symbol indicating said bound of said usage speed         range;     -   said usage speed range is a maneuverability range of the         aircraft;     -   the device is also configured to show, along said graduated         speed scale of the aircraft, a second speed bound symbol         indicating an authorized speed limit for the aircraft.

The invention also provides a system for displaying information relative to a flight of an aircraft, comprising:

-   -   a display device according to the invention,     -   an estimating module configured to determine the current value         of said variable representative of the energy variation,     -   a monitoring module configured to determine the threshold value         of said variable, corresponding to the authorized acceleration         bound for said aircraft.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood in light of the example embodiments of the invention that will now be described in reference to the appended figures, in which:

FIG. 1 diagrammatically illustrates a piloting assistance system comprising a display device according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates an illustration mode by the display device of the system of FIG. 1 for displaying information relative to the speed and acceleration of the aircraft;

FIG. 3 shows an alternative illustration by the display device of information relative to the speed and acceleration of the aircraft; and

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the assistance method implemented by the system of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows a piloting assistance system 3 for an aircraft 5 comprising a display device according to one embodiment of the invention.

The aircraft 5 includes a propulsion system 7, for example a set of engines able to exert a thrust force on the aircraft 5.

The aircraft 5 further includes devices 9 for modifying the drag force exerted by the air on the aircraft 5, subsequently called drag modifying devices, for example drag control surfaces such as air brakes 11 and spoilers 13.

The air brakes 11 can be actuated between a withdrawn position, in which the air brakes 11 do not exert any influence on the drag, and a deployed position, in which the air brakes 11 increase the drag of the aircraft 5.

The spoilers 13 can also be actuated between a withdrawn position, in which the spoilers 13 do not exert any influence on the drag, and a deployed position, in which the spoilers 13 increase the drag of the aircraft 5. When the spoilers 13 are deployed, they also decrease the lift of the aircraft 5.

The aircraft 5 also includes devices 17 for modifying the trajectory of the aircraft 5, for example an elevator and ailerons.

The aircraft 5 further comprises high lift devices, such as slats and flaps, able to modify the lift of the aircraft 5.

The propulsion system 7, the devices 9 modifying the drag force exerted by the air on the aircraft 5 and the devices 17 modifying the trajectory of the aircraft 5 form devices for controlling the acceleration of the aircraft.

The configuration of the slats, flaps and control surfaces will be referred to below as the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft 5.

The aircraft 5 further includes a plurality of sensors 21 making it possible to determine the values of flight parameters of the aircraft 5, such as its position, its altitude z, its speed and its acceleration relative to the air and the ground.

For example, an anemometer or airspeed indicator makes it possible to determine an indicated airspeed V_(I) of the aircraft 5, which is the speed of the aircraft 5 relative to the air, coming directly from pressure measurements.

The system 3 is configured to assist the crew of the aircraft 5 during manual flight, to keep the speed of the aircraft 5 in a first speed range.

In the rest of the description, unless otherwise indicated, the “speed” of the aircraft 5 is the indicated airspeed V_(I), and the acceleration will refer to a variation of the indicated airspeed of the aircraft 5, whether it involves a positive acceleration or negative acceleration, also called deceleration.

Hereinafter, “range”, in particular of a speed or acceleration, will refer to a speed or acceleration interval defined by at least one bound with a finite value.

The first speed range for example corresponds to a speed range achievable by the aircraft 5.

The first speed range is preferably defined by a maximum speed, denoted V_(max), and a minimum speed, denoted V_(min).

The speed V_(max) for example corresponds to a structural limit of the aircraft 5: it is for example a maximum speed that the aircraft 5 can assume without risk to its structure, denoted VD, decreased by a reduced safety margin. For example, V_(max)=VD X, where X is approximately several meters per second, for example 0<X≤20 m/s.

Preferably, the speed V_(max) has a fixed value, in particular independent of the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft 5 and the flight phase of the aircraft 5.

The minimum speed V_(min) is for example a stall speed of the aircraft 5, increased by a safety margin. The minimum speed V_(min) thus corresponds to the stall incidence of the aircraft 5, beyond which an aerodynamic stall of the aircraft 5 occurs.

The speed V_(min) depends on the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft 5, the weight of the aircraft 5 and the load factor of the aircraft 5.

The system 3 is configured to assist the crew of the aircraft 5 during manual flight, in order to help the crew keep the speed of the aircraft 5 in the first speed range, and if possible in a second speed range.

In general, the second speed range is defined as a usage speed range desired for the aircraft 5. The second speed range is comprised in the first speed range.

This second speed range is for example a maneuverability range of the aircraft, i.e., a speed range in which the aircraft 5 is considered to be maneuverable, and outside which the maneuverability of the aircraft 5 is reduced.

According to another example, the second speed range is a speed range associated with a flight time constraint, i.e., a speed range making it possible to ensure that the flight time of the aircraft will indeed be comprised in a given flight time range.

According to another example, the second speed range is a speed range associated with a reduced flight envelope, for example in case of mechanical failure.

In the rest of the description, it will be considered, as an example, that the second flight range is a maneuverability range of the aircraft.

The second speed range is preferably defined by a maximum usage speed, which in the described example is a maximum maneuverability speed, denoted V_(MMSup), and a minimum usage speed, which in the described example is a minimum maneuverability speed, denoted V_(MMInf).

The maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) is a speed up to which minimal maneuverability of the aircraft 5 is guaranteed.

The maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSUP) is preferably independent of the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft 5 and the flight phase of the aircraft 5.

For example, the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) is defined as a function of the speed VD, in particular as the speed VD decreased by an increased safety margin. Thus, the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) is always below the maximum speed V_(max).

For example, V_(MMSup)=VD−X′, where X′ is approximately several meters per second, for example 10<X′≤30 m/s.

The minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) is a speed of the aircraft below which a minimum maneuverability of the aircraft 5 is guaranteed.

For example, the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) is proportional to the speed VS1g, which is the stall speed of the aircraft 5 under a load factor of 1 g. The minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) is that expressed by V_(MMInf)=k*VS1g, where k is a proportionality factor. For example, 1≤k≤1.2.

Preferably, the proportionality factor k depends on the flight phase of the aircraft 5. In particular, k can assume a first value during takeoff, and a second value, different from the first value, in particular greater than the first value, during the rest of the flight.

The minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) is generally higher than the minimum speed

The system 3 comprises a computer 30 and man-machine interface means, in particular an information display device 34.

The computer 30 includes a processor 40 and a memory 42.

The processor 40 is suitable for executing applications contained in the memory 42, in particular an operating system allowing the traditional operation of a computer system.

The memory 42 comprises different memory zones containing software modules able to be executed by the processor 40, and data sets.

In particular, the memory 42 comprises an estimator in the form of an estimating module 48, a monitor in the form of a monitoring module 50 and an acceleration controller in the form of an acceleration control module 52.

The estimating module 48 is configured to determine, at each moment, the first and second speed ranges.

In particular, the estimating module 48 is configured to determine, at each moment, the speeds V_(min), V_(max), V_(MMInf) and V_(MMSup).

The estimating module 48 is also configured to determine, at each moment, a third speed range, included in the first and second ranges. This third speed range is preferably an operational speed range of the aircraft 5, determined between a lower bound, denoted V_(minOp), corresponding to a minimum operational speed of the aircraft 5, and an upper bound, denoted V_(maxOp), corresponding to the maximum operational speed of the aircraft 5.

The minimum operational speed V_(minOp) is greater than the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf). The minimum operational speed V_(minOp) is for example proportional to the speed VS1g, and is expressed by V_(minOp)=k′*VS1g, where k′ is a proportionality factor greater than k. For example, 1.2≤k≤1.5.

Preferably, the proportionality factor k′ depends on the flight phase of the aircraft 5. Normally, k′ assumes a first value during takeoff, and a second value, different from the first value, in particular higher than the first value, during the rest of the flight.

The maximum operational speed V_(maxOp) is lower than the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup). The maximum operational speed V_(maxOp) is preferably fixed.

The estimating module 48 is also configured to determine, at each moment, a total energy variation of the aircraft 5, homogeneous with a slope of the aircraft 5.

At an altitude z, the aircraft 5 has a total mechanical energy E_(total), sum of its kinetic energy and its potential energy, which can be expressed by: E _(totale)=½mV _(sol) ² +mgz  (1) where m designates the mass of the aircraft 5 and V_(sol) is its ground speed. The variation of this total energy can be expressed by a total slope γ^(T), according to the equation:

$\begin{matrix} {\gamma^{T} = {{\frac{1}{{mg}\mspace{14mu} V_{sol}}\frac{{dE}_{totale}}{dt}} = {\gamma_{sol} + \frac{{\overset{.}{V}}_{sol}}{g}}}} & (2) \end{matrix}$ where {dot over (V)}_(sol) represents the time drift of the ground speed V_(sol) of the aircraft 5.

This variable γ^(Y), homogeneous with a slope, is thus equal to the ground slope γ_(sol) of the aircraft 5 when its ground speed V_(sol) remains constant. A variation in the total slope γ^(T) is therefore reflected by a variation in the ground slope γ_(sol) and/or a variation in the ground acceleration {dot over (V)}sol of the aircraft 5. Thus, the total slope γ^(T) represents a variation of the total energy of the aircraft 5.

Yet the critical speeds defined above are speeds of the aircraft 5 relative to the air mass (and not relative to the ground).

The estimating module 48 is thus configured to determine a total energy variation derived from the aforementioned total slope, called pseudo-total slope and designated by the symbol γ*.

This variable corresponds to the ground slope which, under current conditions, leads to a constant conventional speed.

Its expression is deduced from the equations of the flight mechanics, and is expressed by:

$\begin{matrix} {\gamma^{*} = {{\gamma_{sol} + {\frac{\left( \frac{\partial V_{air}}{\partial V} \right)_{z = {cste}}}{1 + {\frac{V_{sol}}{g} \cdot \left( \frac{\partial V_{air}}{\partial z} \right)_{{Vc} = {cste}}}}\frac{\overset{.}{V}}{g}}} = {\gamma_{sol} + {A \cdot \frac{\overset{.}{V}}{g}}}}} & (3) \end{matrix}$

The pseudo-total slope γ* is thus a variable homogeneous with a slope of the aircraft 5, and the value of which is representative of the acceleration of the aircraft 5. Indeed, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is null, the total pseudo-slope γ* is equal to the ground slope of the aircraft 5, and when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is positive or negative, the pseudo-total slope γ* is respectively above or below the ground slope of the aircraft 5.

The monitoring module 50 is configured to monitor the speed and acceleration of the aircraft 5, and to activate or deactivate the acceleration control module 52, based on the speed and acceleration of the aircraft 5.

In particular, the monitoring module 50 is configured to determine, at each moment, an authorized acceleration range for the aircraft 5 at that moment, and to compare, at each moment, the acceleration of the aircraft 5 to the authorized acceleration range. The “authorized acceleration range” refers to the acceleration range allowed for the aircraft without an action modifying this acceleration being required, independently of the physical capacities of the aircraft to reach or not reach the bounds of this acceleration range. The authorized acceleration range is therefore not defined by minimum and maximum accelerations that the aircraft is able to achieve, but minimum and maximum accelerations allowed for the aircraft.

Furthermore, the monitoring module 50 is configured to activate the acceleration control module 52 if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is not comprised in the authorized acceleration range, and to deactivate the acceleration control module 52 if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is comprised in the authorized acceleration range.

The authorized acceleration range is defined at each moment as a function of the speed of the aircraft 5, in particular as a function of the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 at that moment and the second speed range, which in the described example is the maneuverability range of the aircraft 5.

Thus, the comparison of the acceleration to the authorized acceleration range makes it possible to detect situations in which, without action by the pilot, the speed of the aircraft 5 would leave or remain outside the maneuverability range, activate the acceleration control module 52 when such situations are detected, and keep the acceleration control module 52 activated as long as this risk exceeds a determined threshold.

In particular, a case where the acceleration leaves the authorized acceleration range corresponds to a situation in which, if no corrective action is taken to redirect the acceleration, in light of the reaction times of the drag, thrust and trajectory modifying devices, an excursion of the speed of the aircraft 5 outside the maneuverability range will no longer be able to be avoided.

Preferably, the authorized acceleration range is defined by an upper acceleration bound, denoted Acc_(max), and a lower acceleration bound, denoted Acc_(min).

The upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) corresponds to a maximum allowed acceleration in light of the speed of the aircraft 5, in particular the deviation between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) and the speed of the aircraft 5.

The monitoring module 50 is configured to determine the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) at each moment as a function of the deviation between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) as determined at that moment by the estimating module 48, and the speed of the aircraft 5 at that moment.

In particular, the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) is a strictly increasing function of the deviation between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) and the speed of the aircraft 5.

Thus, when the speed of the aircraft 5 approaches the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup), i.e., when the deviation between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) and the speed of the aircraft 5 decreases, the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) decreases, which is reflected by an approach of the flight zone in which, without action by the pilot, in light of the acceleration and the reaction time of the acceleration control devices, an excursion of the speed of the aircraft 5 above the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) will not be able to be avoided.

Furthermore, the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) is positive as long as the speed of the aircraft 5 remains below the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup), and becomes negative when the speed of the aircraft 5 becomes higher than the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup). This reflects the fact that, when the speed of the aircraft 5 is above the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup), only a negative action below the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) makes it possible to bring the speed toward the maneuverability range.

The upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) is for example proportional to the deviation between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) and the speed of the aircraft 5, and is then expressed as: Acc _(max) =K*(V _(MMSup) −V),

where K is a strictly positive proportionality factor. For example, the factor K is fixed, in particular independent of the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft 5 and the flight phase of the aircraft 5.

Alternatively, the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) is a nonlinear function of the deviation between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) and the speed of the aircraft 5.

The lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) corresponds to a minimum authorized acceleration in light of the speed of the aircraft 5, in particular the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 and the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf).

The monitoring module 50 is configured to determine the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) at each moment as a function of the deviation between the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) as determined by the estimating module 48 and the speed of the aircraft 5 at that moment.

In particular, the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) is a strictly decreasing function of the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 and the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf).

Thus, when the speed of the aircraft 5 decreases and comes closer to the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf), the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 and the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) decreases, and the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) increases, which reflects an approach of the flight zone in which, without action by the pilot, in light of the negative acceleration and the reaction time of the acceleration control devices, an excursion of the speed of the aircraft 5 below the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) will not be able to be avoided.

Furthermore, the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) is negative as long as the speed of the aircraft 5 remains above the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf), and becomes positive when the speed of the aircraft 5 becomes lower than the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf). Indeed, when the speed of the aircraft 5 is below the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf), only a positive acceleration above the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) makes it possible to bring the speed of the aircraft 5 toward the maneuverability range.

The lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) is for example proportional to the deviation between the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) and the speed of the aircraft 5, and is then expressed as: Acc _(min) =K′*(V _(MMInf) −V), where K′ is a positive proportionality factor. For example, the factor K′ is fixed, in particular independent of the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft 5 and the flight phase of the aircraft 5.

Alternatively, the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) is a nonlinear function of the deviation between the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) and the speed of the aircraft 5.

The monitoring module 50 is also configured to determine a pseudo-total slope threshold value γ_(max)* associated with the acceleration Acc_(max), equal to:

$\gamma_{{ma}\; x}^{*} = {\gamma_{sol} + \frac{{Acc}_{{ma}\; x}}{g}}$ and a total pseudo-slope threshold value γ_(min)*associated with the acceleration Acc_(min), equal to:

$\gamma_{\min}^{*} = {\gamma_{sol} + {\frac{{Acc}_{\min}}{g}.}}$

Furthermore, the monitoring module 50 is configured to compare, at each moment, the acceleration of the aircraft 5, as determined from sensors 21, to the lower Acc_(min) and upper Acc_(max) acceleration bounds.

The monitoring module 50 is further configured to activate the acceleration control module 52 if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 at that moment is above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) or below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min).

The monitoring module 50 is also configured to deactivate the acceleration control module 52 if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 at that moment is below the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) and above the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min).

The monitoring module 50 is also configured to compare the speed of the aircraft 5 at each moment to the third speed range, in order to determine whether the speed of the aircraft 5 is comprised in the operational speed range of the aircraft 5, and to generate an alert, intended for the crew, if the speed at that moment is above the maximum operational speed V_(maxOp) or below the minimum operational speed V_(minOp).

Preferably, this alert is only emitted if the absolute value of the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 and the maximum or minimum operational speed is above a given threshold, corresponding to an allowance margin, and if the speed of the aircraft 5 remains outside the third speed range for a duration exceeding a predetermined length of time.

This alert is for example emitted by the man-machine interface means 32. This alert is for example an audio and/or visual alert.

The monitoring module 50 is thus configured to generate an alert when the speed of the aircraft 5 leaves the operational speed range, therefore before the speed leaves the maneuverability range. Such an alert thus gives the crew the opportunity to act on the manual controls of the aircraft 5 so that the speed of the aircraft 5 returns to the operational speed range, or at least remains in the maneuverability range.

The acceleration control module 52 can be switched between an activated state and a deactivated state. The acceleration control module 52 is able to be activated and deactivated by the monitoring module 50.

In the activated state, in particular when the acceleration control module 52 goes from the deactivated state to the activated state, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to generate an alarm signal intended for the crew. This alarm signal is intended to warn the crew that an action will be performed by the acceleration control module 52 in order to help the crew keep the speed of the aircraft 5 in the maneuverability range.

The acceleration control module 52 is also configured to generate a control signal of at least one acceleration control device of the aircraft 5, at least at one control moment, in order to keep or bring the speed of the aircraft 5 in or toward the usage speed range.

In particular, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to generate a control signal of the propulsion system 7, in order to modify the thrust of the aircraft 5, and/or a control signal of the devices 9 modifying the drag, in particular the air brakes 11 and spoilers 13, and/or devices 17 modifying the trajectory of the aircraft 5.

In particular, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to generate a control signal of a first type when the speed of the aircraft 5 at the control moment is comprised in the maneuverability range. The control signal of the first type is preferably a control signal of a device modifying the drag or thrust of the aircraft 5.

In particular, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 exceeds the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), the acceleration control module 52 is configured first to generate a control signal for the thrust of the aircraft 5, designed to reduce the thrust of the aircraft 5. Then, if the acceleration control module remains active despite this action, i.e., if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 remains above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), the acceleration control module 52 is configured to generate a control signal of the drag modifying devices 9, in particular an output signal of the air brakes 11 and/or spoilers 13, in order to increase the drag of the aircraft 5.

Conversely, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 becomes below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the acceleration control module 52 is configured first generate a control signal of the drag modifying devices 9, in particular a signal to withdraw the air brakes 11 and/or spoilers 13, in order to decrease the drag of the aircraft 5. Then, if the acceleration control module 52 remains activated despite this action, i.e., if the acceleration of the aircraft remains below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the acceleration control module 52 is configured to generate a control signal for the thrust of the aircraft 5, designed to increase the thrust of the aircraft 5.

The acceleration control module 52 is further configured to generate a control signal of a second type, different from the first type, when the speed of the aircraft 5 at the control moment is comprised in the speed range achievable by the aircraft 5 but not comprised in the maneuverability range. The control signal of the second type is preferably a control signal of a device modifying the trajectory of the aircraft 5.

Preferably, when the speed of the aircraft 5 at the control moment is comprised in the speed range achievable by the aircraft 5 but not comprised in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 is also configured to generate a control signal of the first type, in particular in order to maintain control of the thrust and drag of the aircraft, or to generate an additional control signal for the thrust or drag of the aircraft.

For example, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) and the speed of the aircraft 5 is not comprised in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to prevent deployment of the air brakes 11 and/or spoilers 13, which would increase the drag of the aircraft 5, and to prevent a decrease in the thrust of the aircraft 5.

Conversely, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) and the speed of the aircraft 5 is not comprised in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to prevent a withdrawal of the air brakes 11 and/or the spoilers 13, which would decrease the drag of the aircraft 5, and to prevent an increase in the thrust of the aircraft 5.

Thus, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 leaves the authorized acceleration range, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to generate an alarm signal for the crew, then act on the thrust and/or drag of the aircraft 5 as long as the speed of the aircraft 5 remains in the maneuverability range, then to act on the trajectory of the aircraft 5 if the speed of the aircraft 5 leaves the maneuverability range.

Furthermore, at high speeds, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to act on the thrust before acting on the drag, whereas at low speeds, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to act on the drag, before acting on the thrust. This sequencing makes it possible to optimize the influence of the drag and thrust modifying devices.

In the deactivated state, the acceleration control module 52 is disconnected from any acceleration control device of the aircraft 5 and therefore does not exert any action on these devices. Thus, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 leaves the authorized range in light of its speed, the acceleration control module 52 is configured to modify the acceleration of the aircraft 5 until the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is once again comprised in the authorized range. The acceleration control module 52 is then deactivated, and only the manual piloting commands of the aircraft 5 affect the acceleration control devices of the aircraft 5.

Thus, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the control signals generated by the acceleration control module 52 are designed only to increase the acceleration of the aircraft 5, but in no case to decrease that acceleration. Likewise, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), the control signals generated by the acceleration control module 52 are intended only to decrease the acceleration of the aircraft 5, but in no case to increase that acceleration. In other words, the acceleration control module 52 is not configured to regulate the speed and acceleration of the aircraft 5, but only to provide periodic assistance in order to prevent the speed of the aircraft 5 from leaving the maneuverability range, and to prevent the speed of the aircraft 5 from leaving the speed range achievable by the aircraft 5.

The information display device 34 in particular comprises a head-up viewing device and a head-down viewing device.

The information display device 34 is configured to display, for the crew, information relative to the flight of the aircraft 5 during a flight of the aircraft 5.

In particular, the information display device 34 is configured to display information representative of the current acceleration of the aircraft 5 and the authorized acceleration range for the aircraft 5. In particular, the information display device 34 is configured to show, at each moment, a symbol representative of the total energy variation associated with the acceleration of the aircraft 5 at that moment, and to show, at least at some moments, an energy variation bound symbol representative of an energy variation threshold value associated with the upper bound Acc_(max) or the lower bound Acc_(min) for acceleration.

Such a display allows the crew to view the energy variation margin, in particular for acceleration, still available for the aircraft 5, and, if applicable, to inform the crew when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 leaves the authorized acceleration range.

Preferably, the information display device 34 is configured to show an upper energy variation bound symbol, representative of an energy variation threshold value associated with the upper acceleration bound, only when the deviation between the upper acceleration bound and the current acceleration bound is below a predetermined threshold deviation, i.e., when the current acceleration of the aircraft 5 approaches or exceeds the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max).

Likewise, the information display device 34 is configured to show a lower energy variation bound symbol, representative of an energy variation threshold value associated with the lower acceleration bound, only when the deviation between the current acceleration and the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) is below a predetermined threshold value, i.e., when the current acceleration of the aircraft 5 approaches or exceeds the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min).

Thus, an energy variation bound symbol is only displayed when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is close to or exceeds the upper Acc_(max) or lower Acc_(min) acceleration bound. Thus, the energy variation bound symbol is only displayed when this information is relevant, which makes it possible both to avoid overloading the information display device 34 and to draw the crew's attention when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is approaching the upper Acc_(max) or lower Acc_(min) acceleration bound.

Furthermore, the information display device 34 is configured to display information representative of the current state of the aircraft 5 and information relative to speed bounds for the aircraft 5, in particular the first and/or the second speed range.

In particular, the information display device 34 is configured to show a graduated speed scale, along which a speed symbol is illustrated indicating the current speed of the aircraft 5.

The information display device 34 is also configured to show, along the graduated speed scale, speed bound symbols, in particular the maximum V_(max) and minimum V_(min) speeds of the first speed range and/or the maximum and minimum speeds of the second speed range, in the described example the maximum V_(MMSup) and minimum V_(MMInf) maneuverability speed, and/or the maximum V_(maxOp) and minimum V_(minOp) operational speeds.

Such a display makes it possible to provide information to the crew about the maneuvering margins that it has in terms of speed.

Furthermore, the display device 34 is configured to display information relative to the actions performed by the acceleration control module 52, in particular to indicate a modification in the drag, thrust and/or trajectory by the acceleration control module 52. Such a display makes it possible to keep the crew informed and thus to minimize disruptions to manual piloting.

FIG. 2 shows an example illustration of this information by the information display device 34.

The information display device 34 comprises a viewing screen 68 dedicated to piloting of the aircraft 5. FIG. 2 thus shows information projected on this screen, displayed in the form of symbols.

These symbols in particular include a symbol 70 showing a model of the aircraft 5, occupying a fixed position on the screen, which embodies an infinite projection of the longitudinal axis of the aircraft 5, and an artificial horizon line 72, at the center of the graduated slope scale 74. This artificial horizon line 72 is inclined when the roll angle of the aircraft 5 is a non-zero angle, during a turn. A speed vector symbol 76 of the aircraft 5 indicates the direction of the speed vector of the aircraft 5.

The vertical deviation between the artificial horizon line 72 and the speed vector symbol 76 of the aircraft 5 represents the ground slope γ_(sol) of the aircraft 5.

Furthermore, an energy variation symbol 80 indicates a variation in total energy of the aircraft 5, expressed by a variable representative of this total energy variation.

In the illustrated example, the variable representative of the total energy variation is homogeneous with a slope of the aircraft 5. The energy variation symbol 80 is laterally offset relative to the speed vector symbol 76, the relative position of the energy variation symbol 80 relative to the graduated slope scale 74 corresponding to the value of the variable representative of the total energy variation.

Preferably, the variable representative of the total energy variation is the pseudo-total slope γ* of the aircraft 5.

Thus, the relative position of the energy variation symbol 80 with respect to the speed vector symbol 76 indicates the acceleration sign of the aircraft 5: a horizontal alignment of the energy variation symbol 80 and the speed vector symbol 76 reflects a null acceleration; when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is negative, i.e., the aircraft 5 is decelerating, the energy variation symbol 80 is positioned below the speed vector symbol 76, whereas when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is positive, the energy variation symbol 80 is positioned above the speed vector symbol 76.

Furthermore, the distance between the energy variation symbol 80 and the speed vector symbol 76 is representative of the absolute value of the acceleration of the aircraft 5.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the energy variation symbol 80 is in a chevron shape, comprising a lower segment 80 a and an upper segment 80 b that are oblique and come together to form a tip 80 c, the position of which along the vertical axis indicates, according to the graduated slope scale 74, the value of the pseudo-total slope γ* of the aircraft 5.

Furthermore, an energy variation bound symbol 84, representative of an energy variation threshold value associated with the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) or with the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) is displayed, preferably only when the deviation between the upper bound Acc_(max) and the acceleration or the deviation between the acceleration and the lower acceleration bound is below a predetermined threshold deviation.

The energy variation bound symbol 84 thus indicates an upper or lower pseudo-total slope bound associated with the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) or the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), respectively, in light of the current ground slope of the aircraft 5.

Thus, the upper energy variation bound symbol indicates a threshold pseudo-total slope value γ_(max)* associated with the acceleration Acc_(max) equal to:

$\gamma_{{ma}\; x}^{*} = {\gamma_{sol} + \frac{{Acc}_{{ma}\; x}}{g}}$

Likewise, the lower energy variation bound symbol indicates a threshold value γ_(min)* of pseudo-total slope associated with the acceleration Acc_(min), equal to:

$\gamma_{\min}^{*} = {\gamma_{sol} + \frac{{Acc}_{\min}}{g}}$

The energy variation symbol 80 and the energy variation bound symbol 84 are laterally offset relative to the speed vector symbol 76, and aligned vertically.

The distance between the energy variation bound symbol 84 and the speed vector symbol 76 is representative of the absolute value of the upper Acc_(max) or lower Acc_(min) acceleration bound.

Furthermore, the distance between the energy variation symbol 80 and the energy variation bound symbol 84 is representative of a deviation between the current acceleration and the acceleration bound Acc_(min) or Acc_(max), as long as the acceleration bound Acc_(min) or Acc_(max) is not reached.

Preferably, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is greater than the upper bound Acc_(min) or lower than the lower bound Acc_(min), the energy variation bound symbol 84 remains superimposed on the energy variation symbol 80. The energy variation bound symbol 84 has a shape complementary to that of the energy variation symbol 80. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the upper or lower energy variation bound symbol 84 comprises an oblique segment 84 a inclined by the same incline as the upper 80 b or lower 80 a segment, respectively, and the vertical segment 84 b.

Alternatively, the symbol 84 can be in the shape of a chevron, similar to the symbol 80. The symbols 80 and 84 are then for example different colors.

As long as the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is below the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), the vertical distance between the symbol 84 and the symbol 80 is representative of the deviation between the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) and the acceleration of the aircraft 5.

When the acceleration of the aircraft 5 becomes equal to the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), the oblique segment 84 a of the symbol 84 and the upper segment 80 b of the symbol 80 are superimposed.

Likewise, as long as the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is above the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the vertical distance between the symbol 84 and the symbol 80 is representative of the deviation between the upper acceleration bound Acc_(min) and the acceleration of the aircraft 5.

When the acceleration of the aircraft 5 becomes equal to, then lower than the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the oblique segment 84 a of the symbol 84 and the lower segment 80 a of the symbol 80 are superimposed.

A graduated speed scale 90 is also displayed, along which a speed symbol 92 is shown indicating the current speed of the aircraft 5.

As shown in FIG. 2, the speed symbol 92 is for example in the shape of a pentagon, one of the apices of which points to the graduated speed scale 90 and indicates the current value of the speed of the aircraft 5 on that scale. The speed symbol 92 also forms a frame in which the value of the current speed of the aircraft 5 appears, in numerical form.

Preferably, the graduations of the graduated speed scale 90 are movable relative to the speed symbol 92.

Furthermore, a second acceleration symbol 94, representative of the current acceleration of the aircraft 5, is positioned across from the graduated speed scale 90.

This symbol 94 is for example in the form of an arrow, which points downward or upward depending on whether the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is negative or positive, respectively, and the length of which is representative of the value of the acceleration of the aircraft 5, according to a predetermined scale.

Alternatively, the symbol 94 can assume the form of two parallel dashes with the same length, this length being representative of the value of the acceleration of the aircraft 5, along a predetermined scale.

Preferably, the symbol 94 is colored, the color of the symbol 94 depending on the acceleration of the aircraft 5.

For example, the symbol 94 is green as long as the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is comprised in the authorized acceleration range, and becomes amber when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 leaves the authorized acceleration range.

Furthermore, the symbol 94 becomes red when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 reaches an upper or lower acceleration bound. The upper acceleration bound is for example defined as a function of the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 and the maximum speed V_(max), while the lower bound is for example defined as a function of deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 and the minimum speed V_(min). Thus, a red color of the symbol 94 indicates a flight zone in which, without corrective action on the acceleration, the speed of the aircraft 5 will leave the achievable speed domain.

Furthermore, stop symbols 95, positioned across from the symbol 94, indicate the upper Acc_(max) and lower Acc_(min) acceleration bounds, respectively. The position of the symbols 95 is representative of the value of the upper Acc_(max) and lower Acc_(min) acceleration bounds, on the same scale as that used for the symbol 94. Thus, if the acceleration symbol 94 exceeds a stop symbol 95, this reflects an excess of the upper Acc_(max) lower Acc_(min) acceleration bound.

The graduated speed scale 90 is further provided with colored bands designed to indicate the critical speed ranges of the aircraft 5, and forming speed bound symbols indicating the speed bounds V_(min), V_(max), V_(minOp), V_(maxOp), V_(MMSup) and V_(MMInf).

These bands comprise two first bands 98 designed to respectively indicate the speed interval comprised between the maximum operational speed V_(maxOp) and the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup), on the one hand, and the speed interval comprised between the minimum operational speed V_(minOp) and the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) on the other hand. In these speed intervals, the speed of the aircraft 5 remains comprised in the maneuverability range, but is outside the operational speed range. The bands 98 extend along the graduated speed scale between the maximum operational speed V_(maxOp) and the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) on the one hand, and between the minimum operational speed V_(minOp) and the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) on the other hand. The bands 98 are for example amber-colored. In FIG. 2, only the band 98 indicating the speed interval comprised between the minimum operational speed V_(minOp) and the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) is visible.

Two second bands 100 are also designed to respectively indicate the speed interval comprised between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) and the maximum achievable speed V_(max) on the one hand, and between the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) and the stall speed V_(min) on the other hand. In these speed intervals, the speed of the aircraft 5 is no longer comprised in the minimum maneuverability range of the aircraft 5. The bands 100 extend along the graduated speed scale between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup) and the maximum speed V_(max) on the one hand, and between the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) and the minimum speed V_(min) on the other hand. The bands 100 are for example amber-colored. In FIG. 2, only the band 100 indicating the speed interval comprised between the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) and the stall speed V_(min) is visible.

Lastly, two bands 102 indicate speed intervals not achievable for the aircraft 5, i.e., speeds above the maximum speed V_(max) or below the minimum speed V_(min). These are speeds that may not in any case be reached by the aircraft 5. These bands are for example red. In FIG. 2, only the band 102 indicating speeds below the minimum speed V_(min) is shown.

FIG. 3 shows an alternative depiction of information by the information display device 34.

This alternative differs from it the depiction illustrated in FIG. 2 in that when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 becomes strictly lower (strictly higher, respectively) than the lower bound Acc_(min) (higher than the upper bound Acc_(max), respectively), the vertical segment 84 b of the energy variation bound symbol 84 elongates upwardly (downwardly, respectively) relative to the oblique segment 84 a, the elongation of the vertical segment 84 b being proportional to the deviation between the value of the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) and the current acceleration of the aircraft.

According to another alternative that is not shown, the vertical distance between the symbol 84 and the symbol 80 is still representative of the deviation between the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) and the acceleration of the aircraft 5, respectively the deviation between the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) and the acceleration of the aircraft 5, even when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 becomes higher than the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), lower than the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), respectively.

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of one example embodiment of a piloting assistance method during a flight by the aircraft 5.

This method comprises a step 120 for monitoring the speed and acceleration of the aircraft 5.

This monitoring step 120 is preferably carried out at each moment during the flight of the aircraft 5.

The monitoring step 120 comprises a phase 122 for the determination, by the estimating module 48, of the first, second and third speed ranges.

In particular, during the phase 122, the estimating module 48 determines the minimal speed V_(min), based on the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft 5, the weight of the aircraft 5 and the load factor of the aircraft 5.

The estimating module 48 also determines the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf), based on the flight phase of the aircraft 5.

Furthermore, the estimating module 48 determines the minimum operational speed V_(minOp), based on the flight phase of the aircraft 5 at that moment.

The monitoring step 120 further comprises a phase 124 for the determination, by the estimating module 48, of an energy variation of the aircraft 5, characterized by the pseudo-total slope γ*, from the ground slope and the acceleration of the aircraft 5.

The monitoring step 120 further comprises a phase 126 for the determination, by the monitoring module 50, of the authorized acceleration range for the aircraft 5 at that moment, based on the speed of the aircraft 5 at that moment, in particular based on the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 at that moment and the maneuverability range of the aircraft 5.

During the phase 126, the monitoring module 50 determines the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) as a function of the deviation between the maximum maneuverability speed V_(MMSup), as determined during phase 122 by the estimating module 48, and the speed of the aircraft 5 at that moment. Furthermore, the monitoring module 50 determines the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) as a function of the deviation between the minimum maneuverability speed V_(MMInf) as determined during the phase 122 by the estimating module 48 and the speed of the aircraft 5 at that moment.

The monitoring step 120 next comprises a comparison phase 130, during which the monitoring module 50 compares the acceleration of the aircraft 5 to the authorized acceleration range. In particular, the monitoring module 50 compares the acceleration of the aircraft 5 to the lower Acc_(min) and upper Acc_(max) acceleration bounds determined during the phase 126.

At the end of the phase 130, if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is comprised in the authorized acceleration range, i.e., if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is below the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) and above the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the monitoring module 50 does not activate the acceleration control module 52 or deactivates it if it had been previously activated, during a phase 132.

If, on the contrary, the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is not comprised in the authorized acceleration range, i.e., if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) or below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the monitoring module 50 judges that without an action to redirect the acceleration of the aircraft 5, an excursion of the speed of the aircraft 5 outside the maneuverability range will be inevitable. The monitoring module 50 then activates the acceleration control module 52, during a phase 134.

In parallel, during a phase 136 of step 120, the monitoring module 50 compares the speed of the aircraft 5 to the third speed range, in order to determine whether the speed of the aircraft 5 is comprised in the operational speed range of the aircraft 5. If the speed of the aircraft 5 is outside the third speed range, i.e., if the speed of the aircraft 5 is strictly greater than the maximum operational speed V_(maxOp) or strictly less than the minimum operational speed V_(minOp), the monitoring module 50 generates an alert for the pilot.

Preferably, this alert is only emitted if the absolute value of the deviation between the speed of the aircraft 5 and the maximum or minimum operational speed is above a given threshold, corresponding to an allowance margin, and if the speed of the aircraft 5 remains outside the third speed range for a duration exceeding a predetermined length of time.

The alert is for example emitted by the man-machine interface means 32. This alert is for example an audio and/or visual alert.

Thus, the monitoring module 50 generates an alert when the speed of the aircraft 5 leaves the operational speed range, therefore before the speed leaves the maneuverability range, independently of the activation of the acceleration control module 52. Such an alert thus gives the crew the opportunity to act on the manual controls of the aircraft 5 so that the speed of the aircraft 5 returns to the operational speed range, or at least remains in the maneuverability range.

Following the phase 134, i.e., following an activation of the acceleration control module 52 by the monitoring module 50, the acceleration control module 52 carries out a step 140 for generating an alarm signal intended for the crew, designed to warn the crew that an action will be taken by the acceleration control module 52 to modify the acceleration of the aircraft 5 if no action is taken by the crew.

If the acceleration control module 52 remains activated following the emission of this alarm signal, i.e., if no action has been taken by the crew or if, despite an action that has been taken, the acceleration of the aircraft 5 remains outside the authorized acceleration range, the acceleration control module 52 implements a step 146 for generating a control signal of at least one device controlling the acceleration of the aircraft 5 in order to bring the acceleration of the aircraft 5 toward the authorized acceleration range, so that the speed of the aircraft 5 stays within the maneuverability range, and in all cases in the achievable speed range.

The control signal generated by the acceleration control module 52 depends on the speed of the aircraft 5. In particular, as long as the speed of the aircraft 5 remains in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 acts on the devices modifying the drag and thrust of the aircraft 5, without acting on the trajectory of the aircraft 5. Conversely, if the speed of the aircraft 5 leaves the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 modifies the trajectory of the aircraft 5 in order to bring the speed of the aircraft 5 toward the maneuverability range, while maintaining control over the drag and thrust modifying devices of the aircraft 5, in particular to modify the drag and/or the thrust in order to bring the acceleration of the aircraft 5 toward the authorized acceleration range, if such a modification is still possible, and to prevent any modification of the drag and thrust that would keep the acceleration of the aircraft 5 outside the authorized acceleration range.

The generating step 146 thus comprises a phase 150 for comparing the speed of the aircraft 5 to the maneuverability range of the aircraft 5, i.e., to the minimum V_(MMInf) and maximum V_(MMSup) maneuverability speeds, as determined by the estimating module 48 at that moment.

If the speed of the aircraft 5 is comprised in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 generates a control signal in a phase 152 for controlling at least one device for modifying the drag and/or thrust of the aircraft 5, in order to keep the speed of the aircraft in the maneuverability range.

Preferably, if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), the acceleration control module 52 first generates, during the first phase 152, a control signal for the thrust of the aircraft 5, in particular a control signal for the propulsion system 7, in order to reduce the thrust of the aircraft 5. Then, if the acceleration control module remains active despite this action, i.e., if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 remains above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max), the acceleration control module 52 generates, during a second phase 152, a control signal of the drag modifying devices 9, in particular an output signal of the air brakes 11 and/or spoilers 13, in order to increase the drag of the aircraft 5.

Conversely, if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the acceleration control module 52 first generates, during a first step 152, a control signal for the drag modifying devices 9, in particular a signal to withdraw the air brakes 11 and/or spoilers 13, in order to decrease the drag of the aircraft 5. Then, if the acceleration control module 52 remains activated despite this action, i.e., if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 remains below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min), the acceleration control module 52 generates, during the second phase 152, a control signal for the thrust of the aircraft, in particular a control signal for the propulsion system 7, in order to increase the thrust of the aircraft 5.

If, conversely, the speed of the aircraft 5 is not comprised in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 generates, in a phase 154, a control signal of at least one device modifying the trajectory of the aircraft 5, in order to bring the speed of the aircraft 5 toward the maneuverability range.

During the phase 154, the acceleration control module 52 also controls the thrust and drag of the aircraft.

In particular, if the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is below the lower acceleration bound Acc_(min) and the speed of the aircraft 5 is not comprised in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 prevents, during the phase 154, a deployment of the air brakes 11 and/or the spoilers 13, which would increase the drag of the aircraft 5, and prevents a decrease in the thrust of the aircraft 5.

If the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is above the upper acceleration bound Acc_(max) and the speed of the aircraft 5 is not comprised in the maneuverability range, the acceleration control module 52 then prevents, during the phase 154, a withdrawal of the air brakes 11 and/or spoilers 13, which would decrease the drag of the aircraft 5, and prevents an increase in the thrust of the aircraft 5.

As described above, once the monitoring module 50 detects that the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is again comprised in the authorized acceleration range, the monitoring module 50 deactivates the acceleration control module 52 in a phase 132. In the deactivated state, the acceleration control module 52 is disconnected from any device controlling the acceleration of the aircraft 5 and therefore no longer exerts any action on these devices.

Thus, when the acceleration of the aircraft 5 leaves the authorized range in light of its speed, the acceleration control module 52 modifies the acceleration of the aircraft 5 until the acceleration of the aircraft 5 is once again comprised in the authorized range. The acceleration control module 52 is then deactivated, and only the manual piloting commands of the aircraft 5 affect the acceleration control devices of the aircraft 5.

In parallel, the information display device 34 displays, during the flight of the aircraft 5, information relative to the flight of the aircraft 5, in particular relative to the speed and acceleration of the aircraft 5, as illustrated in FIG. 2 or 3.

In particular, before each action performed by the acceleration control module 52, during the phases 152 and 154, the display device 34 displays a message for the pilot, in order to inform the pilot of the action about to be taken.

The piloting assistance system and method thus make it possible to assist the crew during a manual flight, in order to prevent the speed of the aircraft 5 from reaching one of the bounds of the second speed range, in particular from reaching values that may compromise its maneuverability or even the integrity of its structure, but without entering an automatic mode in which the pilot no longer has control over certain commands, for example a mode in which the automatic throttle, controlling the thrust of the aircraft automatically, is activated.

In particular, the alarm signal generated once the acceleration of the aircraft 5 leaves the authorized range makes it possible to warn the crew that an action will be performed by the acceleration control module 52, and gives the crew an opportunity to manually modify the drag, thrust or trajectory of the aircraft 5 before an action is performed by the acceleration control module 52. Furthermore, this alarm signal, as well as the information displayed by the display device 34 relative to the actions performed by the acceleration control module 52, makes it possible to inform the crew when a modification of the acceleration will be or is being done by the acceleration control module 52, and therefore makes it possible to make the pilot aware that a protection function is being implemented and altering manual piloting.

Furthermore, the implementation of protection by the acceleration control module 52 even before the speed leaves the maneuverability range makes it possible to have a certain maneuvering margin, and to modify first the thrust and drag of the aircraft 5, in order to redirect the acceleration of the aircraft 5, while retaining the possibility of modifying the trajectory of the aircraft 5 subsequently, if the modification of the thrust and drag proves insufficient. Indeed, when the speed of the aircraft 5 reaches the maximum or minimum maneuverability speed, the trajectory of the aircraft 5 can still be modified.

It must be understood that the embodiments described above are not limiting.

In particular, in one particular embodiment, the assistance system and method are implemented only at high or low speeds. This embodiment corresponds to the case where one of the bounds of the authorized acceleration range is infinite.

Furthermore, the display device according to embodiments of the invention can be implemented independently of the assistance system and method.

Furthermore, the second speed range can be a desired speed range for the aircraft other than a maneuverability range of the aircraft. For example, the second speed range can be defined based on the flight plan, in particular as a speed range guaranteeing passage of the aircraft by certain points in predefined time intervals. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for displaying information relative to a flight of an aircraft, comprising: an estimator configured to determine a current value of a variable representative of an energy variation of the aircraft during the flight of the aircraft; a monitor configured to determine a threshold value of the variable, the threshold value corresponding to an authorized acceleration bound for the aircraft to keep or bring a speed of the aircraft in or toward a predefined usage speed range, the usage speed range being a maneuverability range of the aircraft defined between a maximum usage speed and a minimum usage speed; and a display device configured to show, on a viewing screen, an energy variation symbol representative of a current value of the variable and at least one energy variation bound symbol representative of the threshold value of the variable, wherein the threshold value corresponds to an authorized upper acceleration bound and the upper acceleration bound is a strictly increasing function of the deviation between the maximum usage speed of the aircraft and the speed of the aircraft, or wherein the threshold value corresponds to an authorized lower acceleration bound and the lower acceleration bound is a strictly decreasing function of the deviation between the speed of the aircraft and the minimum usage speed of the aircraft.
 2. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the threshold value corresponds to the authorized upper acceleration bound and the authorized upper acceleration bound is proportional to the deviation between the maximum usage speed and the speed of the aircraft.
 3. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the threshold value corresponds to the authorized upper acceleration bound and the authorized upper acceleration bound is a nonlinear function of the deviation between the maximum usage speed and the speed of the aircraft.
 4. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the threshold value corresponds to the authorized lower acceleration bound and the authorized lower acceleration bound is proportional to the deviation between the minimum usage speed and the speed of the aircraft.
 5. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the threshold value corresponds to the authorized lower acceleration bound and the authorized lower acceleration bound is a nonlinear function of the deviation between the minimum usage speed and the speed of the aircraft.
 6. The system as recited in claim 1 wherein the variable representative of the energy variation is homogeneous with a slope of the aircraft.
 7. The system as recited in claim 1 wherein the display device is configured to show the energy variation bound symbol on the viewing screen only when a deviation between the current value of the variable and the threshold value of the variable is below a predetermined deviation threshold.
 8. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the energy variation bound symbol comprises an oblique segment and a vertical segment, and wherein the threshold value corresponds to the authorized upper acceleration bound and, when a current acceleration of the aircraft becomes strictly higher than the upper acceleration bound, the vertical segment of the energy variation bound symbol elongates relative to the oblique segment, the elongation of the vertical segment being proportional to the deviation between the value of the upper acceleration bound and the current acceleration of the aircraft; or wherein the threshold value corresponds to the authorized lower acceleration bound and, when a current acceleration of the aircraft becomes strictly lower than the lower acceleration bound, the vertical segment of the energy variation bound symbol elongates relative to the oblique segment, the elongation of the vertical segment being proportional to the deviation between the value of the lower acceleration bound and the current acceleration of the aircraft.
 9. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the estimator is configured to determine: a first speed range corresponding to a speed range achievable by the aircraft, the first speed range being defined between a maximum speed corresponding to a structural limit of the aircraft and a minimum speed; a second speed range, comprised in the first speed range, the second speed range corresponding to the usage speed range; a third speed range, comprised in the second speed range, the third speed range corresponding to an operational speed range of the aircraft and being defined between a maximum operational speed and a minimum operational speed; and wherein the monitor is configured to compare the speed of the aircraft at, each moment, to the third speed range, in order to determine whether the speed of the aircraft is comprised in the operational speed range of the aircraft, and to generate an alert, intended for the crew, if the speed at that moment is above the maximum operational speed or below the minimum operational speed.
 10. The system as recited in claim 9, wherein the monitor is configured to generate said alert only if the absolute value of the deviation between the speed of the aircraft and the maximum or minimum operational speed is above a given threshold, corresponding to an allowance margin, and if the speed of the aircraft remains outside the third speed range for a duration exceeding a predetermined length of time.
 11. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the maximum usage speed of the aircraft is independent of an aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft and of the flight phase of the aircraft.
 12. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the minimum usage speed of the aircraft is proportional to the stall speed of the aircraft under a load factor of 1 g.
 13. A system for displaying information relative to a flight of an aircraft, comprising: an estimator configured to determine a current value of a variable representative of an energy variation of the aircraft during the flight of the aircraft; a monitor configured to determine a threshold value of the variable, the threshold value corresponding to an authorized acceleration bound for the aircraft to keep or bring a speed of the aircraft in or toward a predefined usage speed range; and a display device configured to show, on a viewing screen, an energy variation symbol representative of a current value of the variable and at least one energy variation bound symbol representative of the threshold value of the variable; wherein the energy variation bound symbol comprises an oblique segment and a vertical segment, and wherein the threshold value corresponds to an upper authorized acceleration bound and, when a current acceleration of the aircraft becomes strictly higher than the upper acceleration bound, the vertical segment of the energy variation bound symbol elongates relative to the oblique segment, the elongation of the vertical segment being proportional to the deviation between the value of the upper acceleration bound and the current acceleration of the aircraft; or wherein the threshold value corresponds to a lower authorized acceleration bound and, when a current acceleration of the aircraft becomes strictly lower than the lower acceleration bound, the vertical segment of the energy variation bound symbol elongates relative to the oblique segment, the elongation of the vertical segment being proportional to the deviation between the value of the lower acceleration bound and the current acceleration of the aircraft.
 14. A system for displaying information relative to a flight of an aircraft, comprising: an estimator configured to determine a current value of a variable representative of an energy variation of the aircraft during the flight of the aircraft; a monitor configured to determine a threshold value of the variable, the threshold value corresponding to an authorized acceleration bound for the aircraft to keep or bring a speed of the aircraft in or toward a predefined usage speed range, the usage speed range being a maneuverability range of the aircraft defined between a maximum usage speed and a minimum usage speed; and a display device configured to show, on a viewing screen, an energy variation symbol representative of a current value of the variable and at least one energy variation bound symbol representative of the threshold value of the variable; wherein the estimator is configured to determine: a first speed range corresponding to a speed range achievable by the aircraft, the first speed range being defined between a maximum speed corresponding to a structural limit of the aircraft and a minimum speed; a second speed range, comprised in the first speed range, the second speed range corresponding to the usage speed range; a third speed range, comprised in the second speed range, the third speed range corresponding to an operational speed range of the aircraft and being defined between a maximum operational speed and a minimum operational speed; and wherein the monitor is configured to compare the speed of the aircraft at, each moment, to the third speed range, in order to determine whether the speed of the aircraft is comprised in the operational speed range of the aircraft, and to generate an alert, intended for the crew, if the speed at that moment is above the maximum operational speed or below the minimum operational speed. 